This past weekend, Sac Showcase and AEX National Combines traveled to Phoenix, Arizona, to host an exciting combine event at Arizona Christian University.
The event was a gathering of some of the state's most promising athletes, all eager to demonstrate their skills and receive accurate, verified measurements. With a competitive atmosphere and top-tier talent on display, several athletes truly stood out with impressive performances.
Recognizing the Best Performers
Cooper Payne: AEX Phoenix Combine MVP
Junior Cooper Payne earned the title of AEX Phoenix Combine MVP. He showcased exceptional versatility and athleticism throughout the event. His efforts included a 4.81-second 40-yard dash, a 4.36-second pro agility, and he recorded the top L-drill time of the day.
As a standout at Desert Christian High School (AZ), Payne has excelled at multiple positions, including both safety and quarterback. Heading into his senior year, he is determined to make a significant impact on both sides of the ball. With this stellar performance, he has officially earned an invitation to the AEX Bowl Game.
Dante Bruley: Best Defensive Lineman
Dante Bruley, standing tall at 6'3" and weighing 235 lbs, is a junior from Basha High School (AZ). He turned heads at the event, earning the Best Defensive Lineman honor. Bruley's performance included one of the fastest 40-yard dash times recorded at 4.59 seconds, alongside an impressive 4.24-second pro agility. With his unique blend of size, speed, and explosiveness, Bruley is poised for a standout senior season.
Amari Sanders: Best Wide Receiver
Amari Sanders from Mountain Pointe High School (AZ) earned the prestigious Best Wide Receiver award after an outstanding performance at the AEX Phoenix Combine. The 2026 prospect recorded a time of 5.63 seconds in the 40-yard dash and showcased his agility with a 4.36-second pro agility.
His remarkable athleticism and playmaking skills secured him an invitation to the AEX Bowl Game, where he will have another opportunity to showcase his talent against elite competition.
Jordan Daye: Best Defensive Back
Jordan Daye, also from Mountain Pointe High School (AZ), stood out with his impressive performance, earning the Best Defensive Back award. He recorded a 4.75-second 40-yard dash and achieved the third-highest pro agility time of 4.30 seconds.
Daye's remarkable speed, agility, and defensive skills are notable indicators of his potential as a rising prospect for the 2027 class.
Rising Star Invitations
The following talented young athletes earned Rising Star invitations for their outstanding performances at the AEX Phoenix Combine:
Kingston Martin (2030) – DL, Valley Christian
Giovanni Varela (2030) – RB/LB, Mountain Pointe HS
Jordan Daye (2027) – DB, Mountain Pointe HS Best DB
Kingston King (2031) – WR, Middle School
Aquil Turner (2028) – RB, Mountain Pointe HS
Amare Turner (2028) – RB, Mountain Pointe HS
Christian Sykes (2028) – DE
These rising athletes are poised for success and will have the chance to showcase their abilities in the upcoming AEX Rising Star Game!
Full Results: 2025 AEX National Combine – Phoenix Showcase
For complete results, you can download the detailed performance metrics of the athletes from this weekend's event.
In conclusion, the AEX National Combine in Phoenix was a showcase of emerging talent and exceptional athletic skills. The athletes not only displayed their prowess but also earned recognition that could shape their futures in football. As we look ahead, these young stars are worth keeping an eye on as they continue to develop their skills in the coming seasons.
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